At ORY®, we believe you should know what’s in your products and why. This page lists the published research behind what we say about colloidal oatmeal. Each section starts with our claim, then tells you how well the research supports it, then lists the sources so you can read them yourself.
Please note: Colloidal oatmeal is an FDA-approved over-the-counter (OTC) skin protectant drug ingredient. An ORY® product that claims to relieve itching or irritation from eczema, rashes, poison ivy, or insect bites is an OTC drug and must carry a Drug Facts label. ORY® products that use colloidal oat without a Drug Facts label are cosmetics and do not make those claims.
How to read this page Supported — backed by peer-reviewed research or official safety reviews. Supported, with caveats — the research points this way, but mostly from laboratory or animal studies, or at different strengths than ORY® uses. Limited evidence — little or no published research yet. We say so openly. |
1. General Description and Role
Claim: Colloidal oat (colloidal oatmeal) is whole oat kernel (Avena sativa) milled to a fine powder that disperses in water and leaves a soft, protective film. In ORY® cosmetics, it helps dry skin and scalp feel soothed, moisturized, and comfortable. |
Verification: Supported. FDA lists colloidal oatmeal as an OTC skin protectant at 0.007% or more. The CIR Expert Panel found oat-derived ingredients safe in cosmetics when formulated to be non-sensitizing.
Citations:
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 347.10(f) and 347.50(b)(4) — Colloidal oatmeal as an over-the-counter skin protectant active ingredient (0.007% minimum) and its approved indications. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
- What it shows: FDA skin protectant rule for colloidal oatmeal.
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- What it shows: CIR safety assessment of oat ingredients.
- Kurtz, E. S., & Wallo, W. (2007). Colloidal oatmeal: History, chemistry and clinical properties. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 6(2), 167–170. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17373175/
- What it shows: Review of colloidal oatmeal’s history and chemistry.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 347.10(f) and 347.50(b)(4) — Colloidal oatmeal as an over-the-counter skin protectant active ingredient (0.007% minimum) and its approved indications. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
2. Composition and Production
Claim: Colloidal oatmeal is made by milling cleaned oat kernels to a defined fine particle size. It contains beta-glucans, avenanthramides, proteins, lipids, and saponins. |
Verification: Supported. Its composition is well documented.
Citations:
- Kurtz, E. S., & Wallo, W. (2007). Colloidal oatmeal: History, chemistry and clinical properties. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 6(2), 167–170. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17373175/
- What it shows: Describes composition.
- Cerio, R., Dohil, M., Downie, J., Magina, S., Mahé, E., & Stratigos, A. J. (2010). Mechanism of action and clinical benefits of colloidal oatmeal for dermatologic practice. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 9(9), 1116–1120. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20865844/
- What it shows: Review of how colloidal oatmeal works.
- Kurtz, E. S., & Wallo, W. (2007). Colloidal oatmeal: History, chemistry and clinical properties. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 6(2), 167–170. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17373175/
3. Skin Type Suitability
Claim: Colloidal oat suits all skin types, including dry and sensitive skin. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. Colloidal oatmeal is widely used on sensitive skin. However, a study of children with atopic dermatitis found oat sensitization was not rare, and was linked to using oat-containing creams.
Citations:
- Cerio, R., Dohil, M., Downie, J., Magina, S., Mahé, E., & Stratigos, A. J. (2010). Mechanism of action and clinical benefits of colloidal oatmeal for dermatologic practice. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 9(9), 1116–1120. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20865844/
- What it shows: Review of clinical use.
- Boussault, P., et al. (2007). Oat sensitization in children with atopic dermatitis: Prevalence, risks and associated factors. Allergy, 62(11), 1251–1256. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1398-9995.2007.01527.x
- What it shows: Study of oat sensitization in children with atopic dermatitis.
- Cerio, R., Dohil, M., Downie, J., Magina, S., Mahé, E., & Stratigos, A. J. (2010). Mechanism of action and clinical benefits of colloidal oatmeal for dermatologic practice. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 9(9), 1116–1120. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20865844/
4. Hair and Scalp Suitability
Claim: In haircare, colloidal oat and oat protein help the scalp feel comfortable and hair feel soft. |
Verification: Limited evidence. We found no clinical studies of colloidal oat on the scalp. ORY® haircare products are not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions.
Citations:
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- What it shows: Reported hair-care uses.
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
5. Benefits
Claim: Colloidal oat helps dry skin feel soothed, moisturized, and protected. |
Verification: Supported. Lab studies show avenanthramides reduce inflammation and itch signals, and clinical studies (several sponsored by a manufacturer) found colloidal-oatmeal products improved dryness and itch in atopic dermatitis alongside standard care. Relief of itching or irritation from eczema, rashes, poison ivy, or insect bites is an FDA drug claim, made only on products with a Drug Facts label.
Citations:
- Sur, R., Nigam, A., Grote, D., Liebel, F., & Southall, M. D. (2008). Avenanthramides, polyphenols from oats, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-itch activity. Archives of Dermatological Research, 300(10), 569–574. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-008-0858-x
- What it shows: Lab and animal study of avenanthramides.
- Fowler, J. F., Nebus, J., Wallo, W., & Eichenfield, L. F. (2012). Colloidal oatmeal formulations as adjunct treatments in atopic dermatitis. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 11(7), 804–807. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22777219/
- What it shows: Review of clinical studies in atopic dermatitis.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 347.10(f) and 347.50(b)(4) — Colloidal oatmeal as an over-the-counter skin protectant active ingredient (0.007% minimum) and its approved indications. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
- What it shows: FDA-approved indications for colloidal oatmeal.
- Sur, R., Nigam, A., Grote, D., Liebel, F., & Southall, M. D. (2008). Avenanthramides, polyphenols from oats, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-itch activity. Archives of Dermatological Research, 300(10), 569–574. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-008-0858-x
6. Use Across ORY® Product Lines
Claim: Colloidal oat is used in all four ORY® product lines. |
Verification: Supported, with caveats. OTC skin protectant products must contain at least 0.007% colloidal oatmeal, use FDA’s approved wording, and be made and labeled as drugs. Soap and cosmetics that use oat for feel and mildness are cosmetics.
| Product line | Typical level | How ORY® uses it |
| Skincare | 1–3% colloidal oat; 0.5–2% beta-glucan | Creams, lotions, bath soaks, masks, and cleansers (Drug Facts label if protectant claims are made). |
| Haircare | 0.5–3% | Shampoos, conditioners, and scalp treatments. |
| Handmade Soap | 1–2 tbsp per lb | Colloidal or ground oats added at trace. |
| Cosmetics | 0.5–3% | Primers, foundations, and lip balms. |
Citations:
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 347.10(f) and 347.50(b)(4) — Colloidal oatmeal as an over-the-counter skin protectant active ingredient (0.007% minimum) and its approved indications. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
- What it shows: FDA rule.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
- What it shows: FDA explains how soap is regulated.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 347.10(f) and 347.50(b)(4) — Colloidal oatmeal as an over-the-counter skin protectant active ingredient (0.007% minimum) and its approved indications. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
7. Pros
Claim: One of the best-documented soothing ingredients, with FDA and CIR recognition. |
Verification: Supported. Supported by regulatory review and clinical studies.
Citations:
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 347.10(f) and 347.50(b)(4) — Colloidal oatmeal as an over-the-counter skin protectant active ingredient (0.007% minimum) and its approved indications. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
- What it shows: FDA recognition.
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- What it shows: Safety conclusion.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 347.10(f) and 347.50(b)(4) — Colloidal oatmeal as an over-the-counter skin protectant active ingredient (0.007% minimum) and its approved indications. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
8. Cons
Claim: Oat allergy is possible, water-based oat formulas need strong preservation, and drug claims bring drug rules. |
Verification: Supported. We list these limits so you have the full picture:
- Allergy. Oat sensitization has been reported in children with atopic dermatitis.
- Gluten. Oats can carry gluten traces unless certified gluten-free.
- Preservation. Oat supports microbial growth in water-based formulas.
- Texture. Can feel gritty at high levels.
- Drug rules. Protectant claims require OTC drug labeling and manufacturing.
Citations:
- Boussault, P., et al. (2007). Oat sensitization in children with atopic dermatitis: Prevalence, risks and associated factors. Allergy, 62(11), 1251–1256. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1398-9995.2007.01527.x
- What it shows: Oat sensitization.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 347.10(f) and 347.50(b)(4) — Colloidal oatmeal as an over-the-counter skin protectant active ingredient (0.007% minimum) and its approved indications. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
- What it shows: Drug rules.
- Boussault, P., et al. (2007). Oat sensitization in children with atopic dermatitis: Prevalence, risks and associated factors. Allergy, 62(11), 1251–1256. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1398-9995.2007.01527.x
9. Safety Notes
Claim: Patch test before use; for external use only. |
Verification: Supported. Follow these precautions:
- Patch test any new product on a small area for 24–48 hours before full use.
- If you have a known oat allergy, avoid this product.
- For products with a Drug Facts label, follow that label.
- Stop use if redness, burning, itching, or rash occurs, and talk to a healthcare provider.
- For external use only. Avoid the eyes. Do not use on broken or seriously damaged skin.
- If you are pregnant, nursing, have a medical condition, or are buying for a child, ask a healthcare provider before use.
Citations:
- Boussault, P., et al. (2007). Oat sensitization in children with atopic dermatitis: Prevalence, risks and associated factors. Allergy, 62(11), 1251–1256. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1398-9995.2007.01527.x
- What it shows: Allergy data.
- Boussault, P., et al. (2007). Oat sensitization in children with atopic dermatitis: Prevalence, risks and associated factors. Allergy, 62(11), 1251–1256. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1398-9995.2007.01527.x
10. Product-line notes
- ORY® Skincare: For external use only. Not for deep or puncture wounds, animal bites, or serious burns.
- ORY® Haircare: Designed for scalp comfort and the look and feel of hair. Not intended to treat dandruff or scalp conditions, or to promote hair growth or prevent hair loss. If you notice sudden shedding or a persistent itchy, flaking scalp, see a dermatologist.
- ORY® Handmade Soap: Handmade soap is naturally alkaline, and each bar may vary slightly in color, scent, and texture. Not intended to treat eczema or any skin condition.
- ORY® Cosmetics: Lip products are not intended to treat or protect chapped or cracked lips. Do not share applicators, and replace any product that changes color, smell, or texture.
11. References
Peer-reviewed research
- Boussault, P., et al. (2007). Oat sensitization in children with atopic dermatitis: Prevalence, risks and associated factors. Allergy, 62(11), 1251–1256. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1398-9995.2007.01527.x
- Cerio, R., Dohil, M., Downie, J., Magina, S., Mahé, E., & Stratigos, A. J. (2010). Mechanism of action and clinical benefits of colloidal oatmeal for dermatologic practice. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 9(9), 1116–1120. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20865844/
- Fiume, M. M., et al. (2019). Safety assessment of Avena sativa (oat)-derived ingredients as used in cosmetics. International Journal of Toxicology, 38(3 Suppl), 23S–47S. https://doi.org/10.1177/1091581819889904
- Fowler, J. F., Nebus, J., Wallo, W., & Eichenfield, L. F. (2012). Colloidal oatmeal formulations as adjunct treatments in atopic dermatitis. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 11(7), 804–807. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22777219/
- Kurtz, E. S., & Wallo, W. (2007). Colloidal oatmeal: History, chemistry and clinical properties. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 6(2), 167–170. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17373175/
- Sur, R., Nigam, A., Grote, D., Liebel, F., & Southall, M. D. (2008). Avenanthramides, polyphenols from oats, exhibit anti-inflammatory and anti-itch activity. Archives of Dermatological Research, 300(10), 569–574. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00403-008-0858-x
Government and regulatory sources
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. 21 CFR 347.10(f) and 347.50(b)(4) — Colloidal oatmeal as an over-the-counter skin protectant active ingredient (0.007% minimum) and its approved indications. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-21/chapter-I/subchapter-D/part-347
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Is It a Cosmetic, a Drug, or Both? (Or Is It Soap?) https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetics-laws-regulations/it-cosmetic-drug-or-both-or-it-soap
